Trombonist Albert Mangelsdorff was a major innovator, one of only a few Europeans who has had an influence on jazz instrumentalists worldwide. He refined multiphonics, a technique utilizing vocalizing into the horn to produce chords and overtone effects. Often performing as a soloist, he also played/recorded with Elvin Jones, John Lewis, Wolfgang Dauner, and Lee Konitz. Trilogue, Live in Montreux, and Triple Entente are all played in trio with Albert’s amazing technique and multiphonics in full display.

Triple Entente

This 1980 studio recording features three players with sublime mutual understanding. Bassist Leon Francioli is known for his work with the noted pianist-composer George Gruntz and American multi-instrumentalist Joe McPhee. Drummer Pierre Favre spent time with a list of international stars, including Mal Waldron and Manfred Schoof. Favre’s own group also recorded on the prestigious ECM label. Hüpf Thema has Francioli sounding like a virtuoso second horn with the trio totally in sync on an excursion with Mangelsdorff at his multiphonic best. Something fearless permeates Albert’s playing on Des ‘Sch Too Much as the group continues swinging along on a very open road. The mysterious aura and freewheeling play of Otherwise ends up on the straight and narrow. Mangelsdorff utters muted cries and growls on the inventive sound poetry of Loose, Moss, Blues. The up tempo and open aboriginal sounds of Give Me Some Skin ends an album that sounds out why Mangelsdorff was a giant in the music.